Why Seriously, Everyone Should Be Using Lube
Let’s get one thing straight: lube is not just for people who struggle to get naturally wet. It can be a game changer for everyone. Whether it is solo play, partnered sex, or anal, the right lube can elevate your pleasure, keep things comfortable, and make sex safer. Anal sex in particular benefits because the anus does not self-lubricate.
Without it, things can get awkward, uncomfortable, and even risky. If someone ever told you lube was optional, you now know they were wrong.
Types of Lube and Why It Matters
Here is a breakdown of the main lube types, why each exists, and when they are best used.
1. Water Based Lube: The All-Rounder
- Works in almost every situation including anal, vaginal, toys, and with both latex and non latex condoms
- Gentle on sensitive skin, people with latex allergies, and those prone to vaginal irritation
- Easy to clean and does not stain sheets
- Needs reapplication, especially during shower sex or longer sessions
- Pro pick: Cliterally The Best’s Natural Aloe Lube is ideal for sensitive areas
2. Oil Based Lube: For Slow and Sensual Play
- Great for masturbation, massage, and water play
- Includes products like petroleum jelly and massage oils
- Not safe for latex condoms as they can break or dissolve
- Pro pick: YES Organics Plant Oil Lube is long lasting and free from harmful ingredients
3. Silicone Based Lube: Long Lasting Pleasure
- Requires minimal reapplication which is perfect for longer sessions
- Stays slick for a long time but can be harder to clean up
- Works well for shower sex or anywhere water would dilute other lubes
- Generally safe with latex and non latex condoms but not with silicone toys as it can damage them
- Pro pick: Pjur’s Bodyglide is a staple and lasts for hours
Lube Compatibility Guide
Here is a quick compatibility table so you can match the right lube to your toys and protection.
| Lube Type | Safe With… | Not Safe With… |
|---|---|---|
| Water Based | Latex and non latex condoms, silicone toys, glass or metal toys | — |
| Oil Based | Silicone toys, glass or metal toys | Latex condoms |
| Silicone Based | Latex and non latex condoms, glass or metal toys | Silicone toys |
Using the right pairing avoids broken condoms, damaged toys, and uncomfortable clean ups.
What Not to Use as Lube
Some things might seem like they could work in a pinch but they are actually unsafe.
- Vaseline or Petroleum Jelly: Breaks down condoms and can trap harmful bacteria
- Lotions or Soaps: Often contain fragrances and parabens that can irritate genitals or cause infections
- Hand Sanitiser: Incredibly painful and completely unsuitable for intimate areas
- KY Jelly: Contains glycerine and parabens which can trigger thrush
- Coconut Oil: Can disrupt vaginal flora, clog pores, and damage latex condoms unless it is 100% pure and unscented
- Spit: Dries quickly, offers little lubrication, and can increase friction
Final Thoughts: Lube Makes Everything Better
As Fran Bushe says:
“Sex without lube is like a roast dinner without gravy: it is okay, but the meat’s a bit dry — better drowned in the good stuff.”
Choosing the right lube is about protecting your body, enhancing pleasure, and making every kind of intimacy more enjoyable. Match it wisely, skip the unsafe options, and always lean into comfort and connection.
Founder and CEO of Cliterally The Best, Evie Plumb is a qualified sex educator and nearing the completion of her training in Psychosexual & Relationship Therapy. She’s on a mission to provide accessible, inclusive sex education for those of us who had a sh*tty sex ed – because when we truly understand our bodies and relationships, life is so much better (and, more importantly, way more fun!).
